Marco Wittmann joins BMW as DTM reserve and GT race driver

The 22-year-old German, who finished second in both the F3 Euro Series and the FIA International F3 Trophy last year, will provide support to the six drivers and test the new M3 DTM at various points during the year.

"I have always had a link to BMW since the great and informative time I spent in Formula BMW," said Wittmann, who tested a DTM machine for the manufacturer at Monteblanco last December.

"As such, I am happy to be able to race for BMW in 2012 and to gain DTM experience as a test driver. I am certain I will learn a lot in this new environment."

As well as his DTM role, Wittmann will join a number of customer BMW GT squads during the year. This programme will include a drive at the Nurburgring 24 Hours in a Z4 GT3 and will could also involve outings in the GT1 World Championship and the Blancpain Endurance Series.

BMW motorsport director Jens Marquardt said: "In Marco Wittmann we welcome a fast and talented driver for our GT programme into our ranks. He will contest numerous races within the framework of our customer racing programme.

"Marco made a very good impression at his DTM test. This is why he will support the six regular DTM drivers in 2012 as the test driver, therefore giving him a chance to gain more valuable experience.

"It is certainly no coincidence that Marco has come through our own junior promotion programme. Having graduated from Formula BMW he forged ahead with his motorsport career. I am delighted he is now returning to us."